Administrative Relief for DREAMers

Application forms came online for young people who wish to request deferred action. A grant of deferred action would, for two years, suspend deportation proceedings for young people who came to this country as children and provide them the opportunity to work legally in the United States. Those interested in applying must fill out three application forms: one for deferred action and two related to employment authorization. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will accept forms beginning t August 15.

“The release of the new form and instructions to allow individuals to request consideration of deferred action for childhood arrivals from USCIS marks an important step in our implementation of this new process,” said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas.

Individuals requesting consideration of deferred action for childhood arrivals must submit Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals; Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (with accompanying fees); and an I-765WS, Worksheet. USCIS recently developed a series of resources to inform the public on how the process will work. The website, www.uscis.gov/childhoodarrivals, includes a flier, a How do I brochure, frequently asked questions, and a number of other resources. USCIS encourages individuals with questions to visit this website or call the USCIS National Customer Service line at 1-800-375-5283.

“Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a good example of smart prioritization of government resources. While U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reviews requests for deferred action, Homeland Security agencies that deal with immigration enforcement can focus on real public safety threats rather than law-abiding students,” said Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum.

“As we begin to realize the benefits of this temporary measure, we must continue to press for Congress to transcend partisanship and come together behind a permanent immigration process that recognizes the value of all who pledge allegiance to our country.”